Roman boxing gloves found during an archaeological dig near Hadrian's Wall are set to go on display.

Dr Andrew Birley, director of excavations at Vindolanda in Northumberland, described the leather bands as an "astonishing" find.

Made of leather, they were designed to fit snugly over the knuckles and have the appearance of a protective guard.

It is understood they would have been used for sparring sessions as they do not have metal inserts used in ancient boxing bouts.

The gloves were discovered last summer along with a hoard of writing tablets, swords, shoes and bath clogs, reports the BBC.

Dr Birley said: "I have seen representations of Roman boxing gloves depicted on bronze statues, paintings and sculptures, but to have the privilege of finding two real leather examples is exceptionally special.

"The hairs stand up on the back of your neck when you realise you have discovered something as astonishing as these boxing gloves."

The first ever Roman boxing gloves found in Britain are now on display at Vindolanda

The larger of the two is filled with natural material, which would have acted as a shock absorber.

The smaller glove, found "in near perfect condition", is filled with a coil of hard, twisted leather.